How can Exodus 2:14 guide us in addressing conflict within the church? Text of Exodus 2:14 “Who made you ruler and judge over us?” the man replied. “Are you planning to kill me as you killed the Egyptian?” Then Moses was afraid and thought, “This thing is surely known.” Setting the Stage • Moses believed he was defending a Hebrew brother, yet the very people he hoped to help questioned his authority and motives. • The hidden act of violence the day before undercut his credibility; sin done in private had public consequences (Numbers 32:23). • Conflict surfaced because unresolved wrongs and mistrust were brought into the open. Core Principles for Church Conflict • Accountability matters – Secret sin erodes moral authority. Leaders and members alike must pursue transparency (1 Timothy 5:24–25). • Humility over coercion – Moses relied on force; Jesus calls us to gentleness (Matthew 11:29; 2 Timothy 2:24-25). • Examine motives – “Who made you ruler?” challenges us to check whether we seek control or genuine service (1 Peter 5:2-3). • Early reconciliation – Address issues promptly before resentment festers (Matthew 5:23-24; Ephesians 4:26-27). • Shared submission to God’s authority – Human authority gains legitimacy only by aligning with God’s will (Romans 13:1; Hebrews 13:17). Practical Steps for Today 1. Confess and forsake hidden sin—personal repentance precedes effective peacemaking. 2. Listen before speaking—seek to understand concerns behind the question “Who made you…?” 3. Engage biblically—follow the Matthew 18:15-17 process for private, small-group, then church-wide involvement. 4. Involve mature believers—spirit-filled mediators restore gently (Galatians 6:1). 5. Keep Christ at the center—remember His example of suffering without retaliation (1 Peter 2:23). A Christ-Centered Lens Moses’ failure points us to the greater Mediator, Jesus, whose sinless life grants Him unquestioned authority (Hebrews 3:3-6). By submitting to Him, the church can navigate conflict with integrity, humility, and redemptive purpose. |
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